Roof Leaks: Why You Should Be Concerned About Mold

When you have a roof leak, you don’t just need to address the roof damage causing the leak. You also need to be aware of additional damage the leak could cause. Much of the damage comes in the form of mold growth. Mold can grow surprisingly quickly, so it’s important to address leaks promptly and completely.

Mold Growth After a Roof Leak

A roof leak is never a problem to put off till another day. Even if only a small amount of water enters your home, there is a good chance mold growth will follow. Mold spores are all around you in the air and on surfaces inside your home. When conditions are right — moist and warm — those spores start germinating within 24 hours.

To make matters worse, it takes a long time to see mold. Within 24-48 of moisture exposure, damp surfaces probably have mold, but the mold may still be invisible to the naked eye. By day 18, you may start to see the mold, but it will be quite well established and harder to clean up.

Preventing Mold Growth

If you wait to see mold after a roof leak, you’re waiting too long. Start working to prevent mold growth as soon as you notice the leak. Call your roof company and make an appointment for repairs. 

While you are waiting for your roofers to arrive, start drying out the space. If water is still leaking in, catch it in a bucket or tub. Use towels to soak up any water on the floor. If possible, ventilate the area. Set up a fan or a dehumidifier to help remove moisture from the air. Also, wipe down affected surfaces with a solution of bleach and water.

You may need to dispose of absorbent items that get wet during a roof leak if you can’t dry them out quickly. For instance, if your insulation becomes wet, replace it. Damp insulation almost always grows mold.

After your roof is repaired, keep an eye on any wet areas near the mold. If you see mold or notice a musty odor, contact a local mold removal company ASAP.

Take action quickly after a roof leak to prevent mold growth. Clean up the water and call a roofer. If you’re looking for a reliable roofing contractor in the Lee’s Summit area, contact Bill West Roofing.

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